Inspiring Outdoor Spaces

I love dreamy outdoor spaces...

the kind where you can imagine sipping iced tea, reading your favorite novel,
sitting for hours, evening entertaining, and chatting over lunch with friends.

Houzz
The neutral umbrella and furniture really allow the natural elements to pop.
and that stone fireplace makes the space just as enjoyable in the winter.

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 Rene, at cottage and vine, has a fabulous outdoor space.
she calls it her "staycation spot"
and just look at it! why would you want to go anywhere else?
love the pergola and beautiful landscaping.

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This pergola has a retractable shade in case you want to catch some rays
or protect yourself from a spring shower...
and that beautiful brick fireplace welcomes guests outside during cold spells.

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The towering trees and lush landscaping create such a cozy atmosphere
in that darling gazebo...and the lighting is essential for outdoor evening entertaining.

when we moved into our home over 2 years ago, there wasn't much outside the back door.

a few dead fruit trees, one weeny oak tree, and lots and lots and lots of grass!

hubby decided that he would take on the task of building a patio...

and quite the task it was! 

he'll probably never do it again but we sure do love it now!

there was just one problem...no shade. and in the middle of a TX summer,

you have GOT to have shade if you plan on spending any time outside, 

while not fully submerged in a pool.

so these last few weeks have been spent searching and deciding on our favorite furniture,

and essential elements of shade. 

monday through today have been especially exciting because it's all being delivered!

I am currently waiting on a call from the furniture delivery company telling me 

that they're 30 minutes away and bringing the furniture!

here are a few of the pieces that we chose:

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This will definitely give us ample shade on hot, sunny days!

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Our color scheme is very neutral, allowing for the colors in nature to stand out...
which is why we love this outdoor rug.

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Last but not least, our lounging furniture!

My parents have this set, so we know it's incredibly comfortable.

We spent last weekend relaxing on it, in fact, this set started the whole idea for 

creating an outdoor space and better utilizing the beautiful patio that hubby built!

here is a before picture...actually saved from the realtor's website.

the expanse of grass

the small patio that Hubby busted out and rebuilt!

and the after will follow shortly, with all our new additions! 

have any of you created outdoor spaces in your home? 

if so, share your link in the comments. i'd love to see!